Eurovision Song Contest – 2014

I enjoy every nuance of the Eurovision Song Contest, and have done since watching Pearl Carr and Teddy Johnson, and the Allisons, in its early years as a young girl.  I enjoy the painful songs, the attention-grabbing costumes, and the edge-of-your-seat voting.  I even travelled to Duesseldorf in my early 60s to see Blue lose and cheer on Jedward.  Half the population, including half the population of our household, cannot fathom its appeal.  But I make no apology for today’s blog on the subject – I think the blog subjects choose me, rather than the other way round!

Politics

Before the break up of the Soviet Union, the voting section used to be much more pleasurable, and based more on the merits of the songs than geographic blocs, though they did exist.  Our Eurovision entry, by Molly Smitten-Downes last night I initially felt to be a little twee, despite being a hippy myself.  But she did a sterling job, and it was clear that the U.K. has no allies and is not part of a bloc.  We finished 17^th, behind some very lack-lustre songs.

Russia and the Ukraine

The relationships between the various charts of countries would remain the same from year to year, but sometimes luck in Eurovision or other contests are shown in the transits to various countries’ charts.  And while sometimes there are minor tensions between the European countries, none have been as dramatic as this year’s question of whether Russia and the Ukraine would vote for each other.

Mariya Yaremchuk, representing Ukraine said: “I don’t want to think about Russia or any other country.  I  think only about Ukraine.  I want to be worthy of Ukrainians who deserve a better future in Europe.”

Meanwhile, the Russian twins who were performing received boos from the audience, and Russia condemned the Austrian entry, the bearded drag queen Conchita.

Voting

So what did actually happen in the voting politically?  So many of the Eastern European bloc actually did vote for the popular performances from Austria, the Netherlands and Sweden, that at one point Graham Norton was driven to remark that the voting had been quite reasonable and non-political.  At the very next vote, he was proven wrong, and forced to retract.

Ukraine gave 8 points to Austria, 10 points to Armenia and 12 points to Sweden, voting to some extent outside the Eastern bloc.

Russia gave 8 points to Armenia, 10 to Azerbaijan and 12 to Belarus, keeping it in the family.  Neither Ukraine nor Russia voted for each other.

Only Ireland gave our Molly a substantial vote: 8 points.  Malta, a rare country which usually supports the U.K., gave their big points to Romania, Austria and Italy.

Molly and the U.K.

“We’re children of the universe, don’t you know
Dancing on the edge of time and it’s ours to own
Just children of the universe”

~ Molly Smitten-Downes and Anders Hansson

Molly has a no nonsense chart, Sun  exactly conjunct the North Node in Aries (she is a leader) near Jupiter for  Opportunity.  She also has Moon conjunct Mars though it is not known whether her Moon is in musical Taurus or communicative Gemini.  Her Venus (musicality) trines inspirational Neptune.  Her performance and costume were impressive, and she sang from the heart a song she believes in.

She came 17^th, which is better than our usual placements further down the board…

Conchita and Austria

The winner Conchita Wurst (“the bearded lady”) from Austria delivered a strong ballad with a powerful voice.  Her statement after winning included the sentiments of peace, freedom and unity.

Conchita is a Plutonian: she has Sun very closely conjunct Pluto in Scorpio, trine her North Node (karmic mission).  She could not be more Plutonian if she tried.  Her chart shows an intense and determined character.

In her natal chart, she also has Moon conjunct Venus (intense femininity), Mercury sextile Saturn (a seriousness of message), unusual sexual expression (Mars square Uranus), Saturn conjunct Uranus (a desire to break the moulds of society).

Transiting Neptune was sextile her Neptune last night (in tune with her spirituality).  Mars was transiting her Moon/Venus conjunction and expressing her femininity (though we do not have her exact Moon position).  Pluto was supporting her to the hilt: It was sextile her Sun and natal Pluto.

For Austria, there was a transiting Jupiter Return (luck) trine its natal Venus (musical expression).

But Pluto was extremely prominent in Conchita’s natal chart and transits, and Pluto definitely won it.  So it was not about novelty or the surprise of the unusual, which would have been a Uranian emphasis.  It was about psychological depth and truth, and authenticity.  Conchita seemed genuinely surprised that people took her to their hearts, and that she was listened to.

She was quoted as saying: “The beard is a statement to say that you can achieve anything, no matter who you are or how you look.”

Aspects

Venus opposes Mars early today, another indication that a drag queen with a beard might have won last night’s Eurovision song contest.  The combining of the male and female is a theme, in ways antagonistic to some, but for others an act of unity.  Sensuality rules in the morning.  Mary Plumb of the Mountain Astrologer has written a whole article dedicated to this opposition, and here is the link if you want to explore it further:

http://mountainastrologer.com/tma/venus-and-mars-are-alright-tonight

One thing may lead to another today, and you may find yourself in the grip of the square between Mercury and Neptune, mentally ensnared or enslaved, like a fly in a spider’s web (I have been watching insects too much with my grandson lately).  Maybe a television programme or Facebook has you mesmerized…  You may find it difficult to think straight, especially if you have been to the pub before lunch.

Tomorrow’s Mercury trine Mars is a great contrast.  You’ll have sobered up and had a good sleep and your nervous system will be well co-ordinated, and efficiently in charge of Office chores.  Travel will be brisk, and manoevrability impressive on the sports field.

On Wednesday (14^th) Jupiter trines Chiron, which can have successful outcomes for healing, e.g. alternative approaches or philosophical ideas along those lines, especially early in the day.

Late in the afternoon, Venus squares Pluto, and there may be difficult scenarios around relationships and coming to terms with aspects of the past, or phobias (which may be past-life related).

Tension is being heightened towards the Full Moon in Scorpio at 19.16 Hrs. in the U.K.  There may be tussles over money or material concerns, possessiveness and ownership issues.

Thursday (15^th) is calmer with a lovely sextile between Venus and Mercury, designed to overcome writer’s block, handy if you are writing a novel, a speech or a poem.  Writing and literary output will flow.

Later in the evening Mercury sextiles Uranus, and if you think you have done well polishing off the novel,  writing the speech all in one go, or receiving inspiration for the poem in an instant transmission, you’ll surprise yourself, finding out you have hardly started.

Your mind will have been stimulated, and now explodes with new ideas, firing from all cylinders.  Best plan for a late night – there is no point trying to sleep and wrestling with insomnia.  Get all your ideas down on paper or on your i pad, so that you can implement some of them another day.

And there’s more!  Shortly afterwards, and just before midnight, Venus conjuncts Uranus.  You may be socializing late, and hopefully congenially.  Meetings will hold a spark, and strangers may be intriguing.  If you are being creative, your creations will incorporate great originality.

For the third week in a row, Saturday (17^th) will bring a difficult aspect, in this case Mercury squaring Chiron.  An awkward problem could bring a headache (or migraine), and health may require attention.  Travel won’t be easy either.  You may find you have to change your mindset in order to make headway.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – themes around male and female; confusion
• Tomorrow – brisk and efficient
• Wednesday – expansion and healing; relationship problems; emotional tension
• Thursday – excellent for communication and originality; interesting meetings
• Saturday – awkward

Peaches Geldof – Extract

This week it was announced that Peaches Geldof did have heroin in her system when she died last month.  Fresh faced Peaches  departed suddenly and inexplicably from our world on 7th April 2014, leaving behind two very young sons.

She often spoke of the overwhelming effect her mother’s death had in her life.  In her chart,  Chiron (wound and healing) were at the beginning of the sign of Cancer, that degree and sign emphasizing the mother.  Chiron points to the wound, but also the manner in which it may be healed (becoming a mother, which gave her some respite) and also the means by which you can then go on to help others (writing about motherhood in the media).  Sadly, other processes cut through that healing.

She was born for broadcasting, with Mercury conjunct the North Node in the 5^th House of Self-Expression, and a life of glamour too was indicated by a conjunction of Venus with the Sun in Pisces in the same House.

Peaches’ depressive tendency is shown by an exact conjunction between Saturn and Neptune.  Pluto was transiting this conjunction, testing it to the limits, at the time of her death.

Deborah Orr writing in the Guardian yesterday emphasized her Idealism, and that she could never come up to her own ideals.  That is a trait of her Piscean sunsign.  Pisces is ruled by the unbounded (in terms of consciousness) planet Neptune.

With Saturn exactly conjunct her Neptune, she did try to confine herself to systems which were disciplined: dieting, Scientology and attachment parenting among them.  Sooner or later the bonds burst and the soul tries to break free of restrictions.

Between her and her mother was a strong force, a square between Paula’s Pluto and Peaches’ Mars. Could this aspect have exerted a force from beyond the grave?

She presented a normal picture to her friends and family in her last weekend alone., which made her death difficult to prevent.

We have no birth date for Peaches’ husband Thomas Cohen. Her children Astala and Phaedra will be affected by their mother’s tragic early death, but we do not know how their wounds will play out.  Astala, the elder son, was born under a New Moon which will give him some resilence, though his chart is more stressed in relation to his mother.  Phaedra had an easy bond with her, and also a bond with Paula Yates, in sharing a birthday. The two boys both have Mercury conjunct Uranus, and will enjoy a close mental companionship.  Let us hope that they, like Tiger, can be absorbed into the wide extended family, receive positive nurturing, and be protected from the media….

…Please read my fuller blog just posted below, or click on the right hand link.

Aspects

The Sun trines Pluto today, a good day for reviewing deep psychological processes, whether or not you have active plans for this Bank Holiday weekend.

On Tuesday (6^th) the Sun sextiles Jupiter, another fun filled day (I hope).  The Bank Holiday may have put a spring in your step, and for instance inspired a regime of nature walks.

Wednesday (7^th) continues the upbeat progression, with the Sun sextile Chiron.  Possibilities of healing bring hope and new ways of managing things.

Mercury enters Gemini just after lunchtime that day, which will be a relief to Geminis and Virgoans especially those who may have felt their mental processes to have been wading through mud during its sojourn in methodical Taurus.  They can zip around now, as is natural for them.  For the rest of us we’ll be brighter mentally, too, and may be able to clear some red tape.

As with last week, we have a more challenging Saturday scenario.  Last week Saturn opposed Mercury which may have brought some mental stuckness, and this coming Saturday Saturn opposes the Sun, which may make manifesting our creativity a more challenging process.  But any delays or frustrations or blocks may contribute to the end result, which will emerge more tried, tested and genuine.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – deep psychological exploration
• Tuesday – fun (I hope)
• Wednesday – healing; zippy thought
• Saturday – slowed down creative processes

“In the land of Gods and Monsters
I was an Angel…
No one’s gonna take my soul away
I’m living like Jim Morrison”

~ Song by Lana del Ray

Peaches Honeyblossom Geldof-Cohen

This week it was announced that Peaches Geldof did have heroin in her system when she died last month.  Fresh faced Peaches  departed suddenly and inexplicably from our world on 7th April 2014, leaving behind two very young sons.

She often spoke of the overwhelming effect her mother’s death had in her life.  In her chart,  Chiron (wound and healing) were at the beginning of the sign of Cancer, that degree and sign emphasizing the mother.  Chiron points to the wound, but also the manner in which it may be healed (becoming a mother, which gave her some respite) and also the means by which you can then go on to help others (writing about motherhood in the media).  Sadly, other processes cut through that healing.

She was born for broadcasting, with Mercury conjunct the North Node in the 5^th House of Self-Expression, and a life of glamour too was indicated by a conjunction of Venus with the Sun in Pisces in the same House.

Peaches’ depressive tendency is shown by an exact conjunction between Saturn and Neptune.  Pluto was transiting this conjunction, testing it to the limits, at the time of her death.

Deborah Orr writing in the Guardian yesterday emphasized her Idealism, and that she could never come up to her own ideals.  That is a trait of her Piscean sunsign.  Pisces is ruled by the unbounded (in terms of consciousness) planet Neptune.

With Saturn exactly conjunct her Neptune, she did try to confine herself to systems which were disciplined: dieting, Scientology and attachment parenting among them.  Sooner or later the bonds burst and the soul tries to break free of restrictions.

Between her and her mother was a strong force, a square between Paula’s Pluto and Peaches’ Mars. Could this aspect have exerted a force from beyond the grave?

She presented a normal picture to her friends and family in her last weekend alone., which made her death difficult to prevent.

In this blog, I look at the back story, and the heritage from characters in her life or those who may have had an influence.

Themes of Chiron and wounding, Neptune and addiction, and Pluto and death (Keats’ phrase from Ode to a Nightingale “half in love with easeful death” describes it well) loom large in the story.  Neptune and Pluto particularly represent the veil between life and death in different ways.  We all have addiction, to some degree.

Jim Morrison

You might wonder why Jim Morrison is in my narrative, if so please bear with me.  When I go back in my mind, I always go back to this as the origin of the story.

Jim Morrison was the ultimate rock god, and one of those who perished suddenly and mysteriously, possibly under a haze of heroin.

In his chart Chiron was exactly square his Sun, so his wounding was emphasized, but he put out such a body of creativity in his songs and poetry, and was so successful in terms of rock stardom, that it is difficult to detect what the wound was.  He may have died of a heart attack,  and Chiron would have put a strain on the heart physically and emotionally.

Pluto was conjunct exactly the North Node, showing the rock god Archetype.  The rock god Archetype comes under Scorpio and its ruler Pluto, with its edgy, slightly destructive passion.  Mars trine the Ascendant added to his considerable charisma.

Mercury sextile Venus exactly revealed the Writer Archetype – he was a consummate poet and songwriter.

Jupiter exactly square the Midheaven/I.C. axis gave him a larger than life career and lifestyle.  At his death Jupiter was conjunct his Midheaven and square his natal Jupiter, in this case indicating an explosive leap into another dimension, but we do not know the reason or the exact circumstances. At  his death also Pluto opposed his Ascendant, a transit which can result in an out of the body experience.

He was reportedly found in a bathtub and if true that is represented by natal Neptune in the 8th house (a watery death).  Rumours surrounded his death in Paris on 3/7/71  at the age of 27, including the possibility of a heroin overdose, but the police decided not to investigate.  He was found by his partner Pamela Courson who later herself died at 27 of a heroin overdose

What would have happened if Morrison hadn’t died?

Michael Hutchence

It is no secret that Michael Hutchence admired and to some extent modelled himself on Jim Morrison. He also resembled him physically. Michael was also prone to swagger on stage in the manner of Mick Jagger.  But he did identify closely with Jim Morrison.

He had Part of Fortune / Moon / Neptune in the rock god sign of Scorpio. His Part of Fortune was conjunct exactly Morrison’s Venus, an almost religious attachment.

Early in his career, before he met Paula Yates, he wrote the song “Suicide Blonde”, a haunting and prophetic title in the light of Paula’s later heroin overdose.

Perhaps Bob Geldof was not enough of a rock god for Paula, for she fell in love with Michael Hutchence and was determined to be with him, in the singleminded way of Sun in Taurus.

His Neptune was squaring Paula’s Ascendant, which will have fascinated her. His Moon exactly opposed her Sun, giving the feeling that they completed each other.

Just before he died, he was waiting to hear whether Paula would be allowed to bring their daughter Tiger out to Australia where he was touring, due to a tussle with Bob Geldof.  He was in distress over this, but we do not know how much this contributed to his death by self strangulation.

Neptune (drugs and mystery) was transiting his Mercury at the time, so he will have experienced mental confusion. Pluto was squaring his Pluto, which is one of the most difficult transits we face. There is still mystery surrounding his death.

At the time he died the Nodal Axis was squaring Peaches’ Moon, which represented a karmic event affecting the mother. The chart of the daughter of Michael and Paula, Tiger, also registered the impact of an emotional loss for the mother: Saturn opposite Tiger’s Moon. For Tiger too it was a karmic event, with the North Node transiting her Ascendant.

A tragic early death was part of the myth which Hutchence was following.  Once he had embraced that path, could he have turned back from the same sudden ending as his predecessor?  Would he and Paula Yates have provided the stability and security which Peaches craved?

Paula Yates

Paula Yates was a strong willed Taurean, with a showbiz Leo Ascendant and quirky Uranus rising. Her Uranus was her guiding light, exactly sextile her North Node, and her daughter  Peaches also had this aspect, to one degree – another career mirror.

Paula’s Chiron was exactly conjunct her Part of Fortune in Aquarius in her 7th House of relationships.

In his autobiography “Is that It?”, originally written before they divorced, Bob Geldof wrote about how he admired Paula’s combination of strength and quirkiness, and how she mesmerized him in the early years of their relationship.

She loved her daughters, and wrote books on mothering.  She was a successful and driven TV presenter.  But the death of Michael Hutchence broke her spirit, and months before she died she received another blow, in relation to her parentage.  It was said that she sewed Michael’s ashes into her pillow, like some tragic pre-Raphaelite heroine  Her death by heroin overdose was in turn a blow to the family, and Peaches never recovered according to her own admission.  If Paula had survived, there is every chance that Peaches would have.

Jesse Yates

Both Paula Yates’ adoptive father and her real father were television presenters, so it is easy to see why she took that career path. Then with identification with her mother, Peaches took the same career route.

Paula’s mother Elaine Smith was an actress and author, but we do not have a birth date for her.  We also know little about her, or her role in Paula’s life, psyche and process.

That Jesse’s true role in her life was hidden from her is shown by his Neptune on her Ascendant, a fundamental fact kept from her.

Hughie Green

We do not know what effect it had on Paula to be brought up by Jesse Yates, while not knowing for almost all her life that Hughie Green was her real father.

Paula and Hughie (who died before she knew he was her father and the fact was shockingly revealed shortly before her death) had a karmic parent/child tie of Moon (Paula’s) conjunct North Node (Hughie’s). The karma was played out by separation, and the separation is shown by her Uranus opposing his Sun. Would she have survived if she had known her true father?

Bob Geldof

Paula’s first husband Sir Bob Geldof is an edgy personality, and musical (Libran) but has no planets in the rock god sign of Scorpio, a compelling opposite sign for Paula. With Chiron rising in Sagittarius and Moon rxactly trine Jupiter he has a desire to heal the world!

He was unable to control either Paula and Peaches – Paula as the strong willed Taurean, and Peaches as an uncontainable Pisces

Bob Geldof, after the deaths of Paula and Michael, evolved into a Patriarch Archetype.  He fought and won custody of Tiger to keep her with her sisters, has kept the family together, and vows to do so now in the current circumstances.

In his clash with Michael Hutchence, he was the victor in terms of psychological toughness.

Geldof and Jagger are survivors in the rock world – Jagger has 5 planets and the North Node in Leo which gives him vitality, love of life, and a fierce hold on it.

Peaches’ Children

We have no birth date for Peaches’ husband Thomas Cohen. Her children Astala and Phaedra will be affected by their mother’s tragic early death, but we do not know how their wounds will play out.  Astala, the elder son, was born under a New Moon which will give him some resilence, though his chart is more stressed in relation to his mother.  Phaedra had an easy bond with her, and also a bond with Paula Yates, in sharing a birthday. The two boys both have Mercury conjunct Uranus, and will enjoy a close mental companionship.  Let us hope that they, like Tiger, can be absorbed into the wide extended family, receive positive nurturing, and be protected from the media.

Aftermath of the Cardinal Grand Cross

Will you remember the Cardinal Grand Cross as a crisis, or a shift, or in other ways?  Was our experience as expected, or different from our expectations?  Was the magnitude of the event more, or less, significant than anticipated?

Globally

On a global scale one would expect an event or events which potentially involve the whole world when the Grand Cross extends to four corners of a chart.

This week in the Middle East, President Assad of Syria declared he would hold an election, Hamas and Fatah realigned in the Palestinian world, and in Israel Netanyahu declared the peace process buried – all unhelpful directions, but not flashpoints as such.

This leaves the simmering situation in the Ukraine as the most relevant feature of the Cardinal Grand Cross globally, and though it was menacing, but not at a peak of activity, there was talk of a third world war among the rhetoric this week.

The issue did not reach a peak, neither was it resolved.  It has been an issue for two months leading up to the Cardinal Grand Cross, and possibly may continue for more than two months after it.

It is time to take another look at the charts involved. A lot has happened since I last broached the subject, when the uprising in Ukraine first occurred:

Ukraine

At the time of the “Ukraine Spring” Uranus was squaring the Uranus in the chart of Ukraine.  Rebellion to the extreme!  The disruption soon escalated, and Putin intervened militarily to reclaim Eastern Ukraine, and the Crimea.  The whole issue goes back to the birth of Ukraine itself, and the dismemberment of the USSR.  Putin seems to have a desire to re-write that history.  During the Cardinal Grand Cross, Pluto was on the Neptune of the Ukrainian chart, with the other three arms of the Grand Cross squaring and opposing it, thus describing a state of confusion.

Russia and Putin

At the time of the Ukrainian Spring, Pluto was transiting Russia’s Uranus, an extreme provocation or temptation for Russia.  During the Cardinal Grand Cross, Mars and Uranus had come to square this point, fanning the flames of the original event.  Let us hope it is not another Cold War, the original of which lasted for many years. When the Ukrainian crisis started, Pluto was square Putin’s Sun, and Saturn was transiting Putin’s Pluto: big issues of power for him, but no one can see into his mind.  He seems in love with power, but what is his motive?  And how far will he go in its pursuit?  Putin’s Sun (his individuality, and quest for personal power) was last week transited by the Pluto leg of the Cardinal Grand Cross, with the other three planets squaring and opposing his Sun.  You could say he was fully engaged with it, or even the centre of attention.

U.S. and Obama

At the time of the start of the crisis, Pluto was opposing the U.S. Sun, and Mars was squaring its Pluto, both aspects of danger.  President Obama is doing his best to contain the situation, and to avoid provoking Russian and Putin, while standing firm and promoting sanctions.  At the stage of the Cardinal Grand Cross, as with Putin the Sun of the U.S. chart is inextricably involved with the four arms of the cross, with Jupiter instead of Pluto on the Sun. At the inception of the crisis, the North Node was trine Obama’s Venus, and this week Neptune was opposing Obama’s Pluto, taking him on a journey from calm karma to psychological confusion.

EU and Angela Merkel

The European Union started this conflict in a strong position with Uranus trine its Uranus, and Neptune trine its Neptune.  It would have been holding the cards, but for a square from Uranus to its Sun, so it was caught on the back foot in some ways.  As the financial leader of the EU, and with her country Germany dependent on Russian energy, Angela Merkel had Neptune opposite her Venus at the beginning of this story (a question of trust over gas, which is represented by Neptune).  Saturn trined her Uranus, giving her steadiness, but squared her Pluto (which emphasized the seriousness of the situation and its possible consequences). Mars and Uranus are currently in supportive aspects to her Ascendant, so she can stand up for her interests if needed.

UK and David Cameron

The United Kingdom looks more detached to start with, having some easy aspects.  The exception was Uranus square its Pluto, involvement in an intractable and potentially hazardous situation, among more upbeat scenarios such as the reported growth of our economy.  During the Grand Cross, the United Kingdom chart was not involved with the key planets, especially in comparison to other countries and personalities.  The same is true of David Cameron’s chart.  I included them in my survey out of interest, but it is interesting that they prove not to be key players astrologically.

Conclusion

If the position of Mars, lingering long in Libra is the key to the timing of this crisis, it returns to the original position of 27 degrees Libra in July (21^st/22^nd).  If the Cardinal Grand Cross is the key to the conflict, it may resolve a month earlier (where the Grand Cross would be the peak).  Let us hope it is not another Cold War (which seems unlikely), the original of which lasted for 44 years.

In our Personal Lives

The Cardinal Cross brought crises for some, and the aftermath brought some resolution and healing for others.  I have briefly analyzed the experiences reported to me, and here are the results!

20% of us were bystanders, or enablers, for a group experience, focused on the crises of one or two others.  The outcomes appeared to be healing, which arrived just after the Cardinal Grand Cross action.

20% of us experienced a shift, just after the Cardinal Grand Cross  action, in issues of long standing difficulty (timescale: months).  It is possible that the Grand Cross had thrown a long shadow beforehand.

20% experienced severe crises, especially at the finale or crescendo of the T-square between Mars-Pluto-Uranus.  Of this category, 10% experienced relief after the Grand Cross ended, while for the other 10% the crisis signaled the beginning of a journey.(timescale: months).

10% experienced stress during the Cardinal Grand Cross, with celebratory outcomes immediately afterwards.

10% experienced a stressful situation coming up to the start of the Grand Cross, a crisis right at the beginning of the process, and relief after the Grand Cross.

10% experienced gradual relief over the period, where the tension and stress, and health problems had occurred just prior to the Cardinal Grand Cross or a couple of months beforehand, and there was slight and gradual improvement in the situation during and after the period.

10% took the bull by the horns and were able to work with the situation, using astrological understanding, to welcome new forms into their lives.

Did your experiences fall into this category, or would you describe them differently?

Aspects

Today the Sun is sextile Neptune, so it is a good day for experiencing your Spirituality.  Meditation or a walk in nature are possible avenues for connecting with your Soul, and reaping its riches.

Tuesday (29^th) is an Eclipsed New Moon at 8 degrees Taurus.  This may be a new beginning, especially if you have Taurus rising or have a planet at 8 degrees.  Those who were especially affected by the first Uranus-Pluto square in June 2012 may experience this intensely, for that first square of the two planets took place at 8 degrees.  Eclipses can take up to 6 months to show their full effects, which can be turning points.

The same day, Mercury trines Pluto, and you won’t brush off the effects of the day lightly.  You will analyze them deeply.  You will be able to find the significance in the slightest manifestation of the day.

On Wednesday (30^th) Mercury sextiles Jupiter, and Geminis and Virgos should make hay while the Sun shines, as their planet Mercury has a more difficult aspect at the weekend.  It is a good day for sales, business, learning, and travel.  Enjoyable conversational exchanges are to be had by all Sunsigns!

Saturday (May 3^rd) brings an opposition between Mercury and Saturn, so by then careless talk can cost lives!  Have you been bragging, or been careless about broadcasting someone else’s secret?  Be aware of the consequences of speech, and the karma of thought.  Be more circumspect, and more sensitive about other people’s sensitivities and information.

Finally, on the same day, Venus enters Aries, and we can be more honest and open and warm in the expression of our feelings.  It may seem like a contradiction next to the previous aspect, but the task is to differentiate between thoughts and speech, which need to be disciplined that day, and expressions of love which can be unbounded and authentic.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – Spirituality rules
• Tuesday – new beginnings and profound thoughts
• Wednesday – fun
• Saturday – be careful what you say, unless it is an expression of love

Cardinal Grand Cross

Part 2 – Here and Now

In the Christian calendar, Easter represents the crucifixion, as well as the resurrection.  The symbol for this is a cross, though not the equal armed cross.  In the esoteric astrology of Alice Bailey, the Cardinal cross represents initiation, and is the most potent of the three types of grand cross (the other two being the Mutable, and the Fixed crosses).  This week the two traditions coincide.  In a birthchart it is rare to find a grand cross, but those who have one are challenged by personal crises which may sometimes feel like a trial, or an initiation.  The task for us this week is to understand and embrace the personal and collective challenges it brings.  We can start by deconstructing the Grand Cross into its component parts:

Components of the Grand Cross

The Grand Cross is composed of 4 planets in opposition, which also creates 4 squares.  Learn to recognize these forces within yourself, around you, and in the wider world.  You may then be alert to ideas, or guidance, about the best way forward.  Under aspects I will give the timings of all these components, but you may notice any of them at any time throughout the week, and that may help you understand what is going on and how you should proceed, particularly if you have a responsibility for others or are caught up in a group drama.  You may already know what this week’s dilemmas may entail, and it may be one issue or a complexity of issues.

Oppositions

The oppositions are easier to deal with, as the signs of the two planets have a connection which enables them to blend or be transcended in unity.

Pluto opposite Jupiter

Pluto opposite Jupiter is about power play, with often one protagonist trying to exercise their power to the hilt, as in the current display by Putin.  The connecting issues of the signs which they occupy are Order (Pluto is in Capricorn) and Family (Jupiter is in Cancer) so work/life balance may be required.

Uranus opposite Mars

This combination is about accidents or incident-proneness, and the excitement of initiating change.  In truth there are no accidents, as everything has a purpose and there is a meaning for everything, but often we are taken unawares and do not realize the higher Soul purpose in the heat of the moment.

The Squares

The squares are the most challenging components of the Grand Cross.  They  involve compulsion, seemingly wrong turns, clashes and disharmony.  As there are four, it may seem as though events are locked into position, and there are few options on the ground.  But spiritually, there may be a bigger perspective, and more options than at first glance.  Again, taking into account the interlocking squares will help bring them together in your mind when you encounter them, and help you pull together your options, particularly if you are in a position of leadership.  If you are not in a position of leadership you may have a valuable insight for the group.

Pluto square Uranus

This is the most important of the squares, and I have blogged separately about this  (find it below this blog, or by clicking the bar on the right entiteled “Uranus square Pluto – Phase 5”).  This seemingly anarchic aspect is revolutionary on both counts (Uranus and Pluto) and has been operating for a couple of years, and due to go on for another year.  It is therefore a process, technically one of dismantling outworn institutions, but in its negative form is revolution for its own sake without a thought of what will replace the turmoil.  Thus some of the Arab Spring movements (which began when Uranus entered Aries, before the Uranus-Pluto square) have found that the new forms of society haven’t materialized as hoped, and there is still much work to do.

Uranus  square Jupiter

This square  is one of the two easier components: there is an element of surprise, luck and hope in this mix.  It is also an opportunity for the entrepreneurs among you, especially if motivated by good will, love of humanity, and a desire to help rather than only self-interest, to make a difference.  It is a good idea to examine your motives thoroughly, so that your actions have the highest outcomes.  I have included the best outcomes under Aspects, for each component, so that if you see that the proceedings are going towards positive solutions, you can help them along.

Jupiter square Mars

Jupiter squaring Mars brings a concentration of energy and enthusiasm, a fuel for getting things done on a practical level.  There is also some joy to be had, where the atmosphere is conducive to smooth outcomes.  For instance, in meditation this can produce ecstasy, bliss or travel to other dimensions.  It is the energy of rapture.

Mars square Pluto

Second in order of difficulty after Uranus square Pluto, this aspect occurs once every year or two, and often coincides with violence on some scale, such as the assassination of a prominent figure.  It will be important to be vigilant about aggression, coercion or even violence, and not be complacent.

The whole

Take all of these components into account and bring them together in your mind or meditation, using perhaps a symbol or a word such as “Peace” as your central purpose or intention. The aspect section which follows gives you the timing of each square and opposition, and possible higher outcomes which you can assist.

Aspects

This morning the Sun went into Taurus, representing the indomitable spirit needed for this week of the Grand Cardinal Cross, and the will power to stand firm in the face of what does not seem right, e.g. non-violent resistance.  But also knowing when to surrender to the divine, and also the wisdom to know the difference.  More often than not, our own personal will is actually aligned with the divine will.

Also this morning one of the easier squares took place: that of Jupiter square Uranus.  This is it folks!  The first leg of the Grand Cross, and the spring board for hope that things will change for the better.  There is an element of surprise and luck, e.g. you may think you have made a wrong turn, but it may have been for your own protection, saving you from greater disruption.

Optimal Outcome: Opportunity for the Entrepreneur

This evening Jupiter opposes Pluto, which is the power play or stand off element of the Grand Cross.  One party may overestimate their power, and power itself may be seen for what it is.

Optimal Outcome: The limits of Power are reached and Co-operation Beckons

Tomorrow, Uranus squares Pluto (Phase 5).  There could be a total disruption.  If it were not a Bank Holiday in the U.K. people would have felt like striking!  If you are within a family dynamic, someone may rebel or go on strike.  A Bank Holiday may be a safer haven to act out such feelings!  In the wider world, this may be one of the stickier moments in confrontations.

Optimal Outcome: Stress may turn into Surrender and Relaxation after reaching a Peak

On Tuesday (22^nd) Jupiter squares Mars, which can produce pure energy and enthuisiasm combined.  Some types may want to fan the flames of conflagration, however.  This aspect can propel the consciousness into another dimension, such as in meditation, or in others it may take them into a misguided direction, e.g.  when people can get in the wrong sort of company.

Optimal Outcome: Creative Action or Energies and Ideas brought through from other Dimensions

On Wednesday (23^rd) Mars opposes Uranus in the morning, which brings another opportunity for change and surprise (if not shock).  Following on from yesterday, your motto needs to be “Be Prepared”!  What contingency plans do you have?  Think through loopholes in advance and be prepared to institute interim measures which will be helpful to reconstruction.  You may be required to think on your feet.

Optimal Outcome: She/He Who Prepares Wins

Still in the morning on Wednesday, Mercury enters Taurus, and you may change your mindset.  If you have been in a combative mindset (Mercury in Aries) you may now be thinking more in terms of stability and taking practical thoughts or steps.  It will be easier to have patience and think of the longer view.  However helpful, this may prove to be a background feature, as the Cardinal Cross has not quite completed its work.

Later in the day Mars squares Pluto, and so you cannot rest on your laurels.  This is one of the two more destructive of the four squares.  There may be international tensions, and violence abroad, and tension at home.  If you are aware of any of the components of the Grand Cross at this time, it is good to actively defuse any tensions.  If you are not required out in the field, hunker down and protect your own interests.  Surrender may be an option, but it is essential to look to the safety and welfare of the weakest of the tribe, such as the elderly or the disabled, as you move on collectively.

Optimal Outcome: Tension recognized and Defused

It is always darkest before the Dawn, and the Cardinal Grand Cross certainly ends with a confrontational crescendo of Mars square Pluto.  Thursday (24^th) is a respite from aspects, and the beginning of the Dawn.

Friday (25^th) has a trine between Venus and Saturn, a reconstruction of sorts, an opportunity to rebuild relationships or new foundations after the brinkmanships and demands of most of the week.

On Saturday (26^th) the Sun conjuncts Mercury at 6 degrees Taurus, and thoughts and ideas crystallize about how to proceed in a practical and calm direction.  Later, Mercury sextiles Neptune and a space is cleared to receive inspiration and to bring practical and spiritual ideas together.

In all my years of blogging, I have never known a week like it!  It will be an intense week of learning, experiencing and challenge, but I hope meaning and fun will be in the mix too, so we’ll be able to see it as a memorable shift.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – Surprise, and Power
• Tomorrow – Complexity and Change
• Tuesday – Energy and Enthusiasm
• Wednesday – Incidents, and the need to defuse tension
• Friday – Reconstruction in relationships
• Saturday – Inspired thought

 

21 April 2014,  19.21 Hrs in the U.K.

This week sees the fifth of seven squares between Uranus and Pluto, which began in June 2012 and will end in March 2015, the penultimate occurring in December.

Although we are over halfway through the process, this week’s square will be extra concentrated, by virtue of being a component (the most powerful component) of the Cardinal Grand Cross.  So instead of affecting two areas of your chart, it will be more comprehensive in its reach, i.e. coordinating 4 areas of your chart, and world charts.

At the beginning of the process, in June 2012, we were aware that it would entail the dismantling of institutions, and this has really proved to be the case.

Looking back at my blog in 2012, here are some useful ideas which still apply:

Identifying the Square

First you need to identify the action of the square in your life, if it is not glaringly obvious.  Basically two different energies in two different areas of your life have been building up a storm.

[by now you are likely to know what the issue is]

Knowing your Chart

If you know which areas Pluto and Uranus are currently transiting, it is easier to make sense of how they are affecting you, and your nearest and dearest.

Not Knowing your Chart

If you do not know which areas Pluto and Uranus are currently transiting, you may be able to sense which area is being affected by Pluto energy, and which area is being affected by Uranian energy.

Pluto

The area containing Pluto is the more passive but psychologically demanding area, and the area in which you will by acceptance and absorption achieve the most work over a long period of time.  (Pluto and Capricorn the sign it is transiting are both slow and deep-seated).

Uranus

The area containing Uranus will be the ignition or trigger for events and the surprise factor, as well as the rebellion.  It will make more noise and be more active (Uranus and Aries the sign it is transiting are both active and volatile).

Degrees of Involvement

If you have a planet or planets at 13 degrees of a sign, you are more likely to be involved in events, and the effect of the square will be enhanced.  You may feel some benefits to the square if Uranus or Pluto are trine one of your natal planets, or at least a mixed influence.

The Global Picture

At the beginning of the square, these issues were highlighted:

 “You may have an idea of how clashing forces in your life are squaring up.  In the world situation, it relates to the dilemmas and intractable complexity of the Euro (to bail out or not to bail out), the Syrian Question (to intervene or not to intervene) and the climate issue (climate change or climate change denial).”

The problems of the Euro are still rumbling on, but the preoccupation in the U.K. has turned to issues about immigration, the rise in popularity of UKIP, and the possibility of a referendum if the Tories win the next election.

The Syrian question is even more dire.  It was the main story on the front of the Observer this morning.  The article begins: “The desperate residents of a besieged  district of Damascus are expected to run out of food today, leaving 18,000 people facing starvation and leading relief agencies to declare the  crisis ‘unprecedented in living memory’ “: An acute  reflection of this unprecedented Uranus-Pluto square and Cardinal cross.

Climate change has I think proved itself more starkly over the last two years, with the U.K. particularly hit by flooding  over the last year.  There is still a reluctance to act on behalf of politicians.  Controversy surrounds the practice of fracking to obtain shale gas here in the U.K. but is in widespread use in the U.S.  Our one Green M.P. Caroline Lucas, was recently cleared in relation to her involvement of a demonstration against fracking, and has vowed to fight on.  I personally don’t think that on this tiny island we can afford to have fracking or nuclear stations, and am in favour of wind farms.  The sight of them always gives me hope for the future.

The increase of poverty caused by the economic collapse (and I don’t believe government assertions about recovery) have made problems more acute for many families, and it is to the credit of the Christian church that the cause has been taken up.

The U..K. Coalition government is dismantling the NHS, and that was a feature of my blog a few weeks ago.  One wonders how it is going to be put back together.

On the world stage there is a new brinkmanship involving Putin and Russia, the U.S. and  Obama, the EU and Angela Merkel, and the Ukranian people themselves in a civil war.  This is of course a prominent feature of the Cardinal Cross, which will be the subject of a later blog today.  The recent Malaysian plane disappearance and the South Korean ferry disaster may also be features of the Cardinal Cross, of which Uranus squaring Pluto is a quarter of the picture.

Conclusion

Yes the Uranus-Pluto square has proved to be destructive, and many problems are still stuck, with very little sign of green shoots, repairing, or new structures emerging.  But there are new attitudes emerging, some of which may eventually prove constructive, such as the Occupy movement, and the tendency for people now to be feeling enough is enough.   Some countries around the world are starting to initiate democracy where there has been oppression and the suppression of women.  At the same time, in countries where stability and democracy have been established, there is a questioning of whether democracy and capitalism are working.  It all still feels to be a process still in transition, with everything still in the melting pot.  Now, more than ever, we need to be constructive in our personal choices, including our choice of thoughts.

 

Cardinal Grand Cross

Preparations – Part 1

The Grand Cardinal Cross takes place between 20^th-23^rd April inclusive, and will be very intense.  It is composed of 2 oppositions (Mars opposite Uranus and Jupiter opposite Pluto) and four squares (Mars square Pluto, Pluto square Uranus, Uranus square Jupiter and Jupiter square Mars).  World events are likely to reflect this set of interlocked problems (such as the problems between Russia and the rest of the world over the Ukraine), and you may have noticed crises building in society or your own personal circles.  So I have devised some preparation, in two parts.  The situation can be looked upon as an opportunity for everyone to get their act together.  I will be doing regressions and future life progressions in the Watford area during that time, and I feel like that will prove to be taking the bull by the horns.

General principles

You need to strengthen the function of each arm of the Cross.  For example, if you have a weak Jupiter principle, you may lose sight of the Hope you need for the task.  If you can balance all four psychological principles as represented by the four planets involved, you will be creative rather than responsive to events. Take my Quiz below to find out where your strengths and weaknesses lie, and what you need to work on or develop before 20^th April:

Are you fit?

Add your score as you go along.  If you do not know the answer, give yourself 1 point for the benefit of the doubt.

General Questions:

Do you have a Grand Cross natally? Score 5 points for Yes

Are you observing a build up of crisis or crises in your personal life? Score 5 points for No

Have you been working with Astrology for 5 or more years?  Score 5 points for Yes

Subtotal

Mars:

Are you an Aries Sunsign, Ascendant or do you have Mars Rising? Score 5 points for a Yes

Is your natal Mars well aspected? Score 5 points for a Yes

Do you consider the Inner Warrior to be one of your Archetypes? Score 5 points for  a Yes

Subtotal

Jupiter:

Are you a Sagittarian Sunsign, Ascendant, or do you have Jupiter rising? Score 5 points for Yes

Is your natal Jupiter well aspected? Score 5 points for a Yes

Do you consider yourself a lucky person generally? Score 5 points for a Yes

Subtotal

Uranus:

Are you an Aquarian Sunsign, Ascendant, or do you have Uranus rising? Score 5 points for Yes

Is your natal Uranus well aspected?  Score 5 points for Yes

Do you cope well with change? Score 5 points for Yes

Subtotal

Pluto:

Are you a Scorpio Sunsign, Ascendant, or do you have Pluto rising? Score 5 points for Yes

Is your natal Pluto well aspected?  Score 5 points for Yes

Have you been in Psychotherapy or followed a Spiritual Path, i.e. are you used to working on yourself?  Score 5 points for Yes

Subtotal

Grand Total

Results:

Add up the totals for each section individually, and then the Grand Total:

If your overall score is 35 or over, this may be a good shift for you, but you may still need to work towards the full score of

If your overall score is between 5 and 35 you still have a good chance of a reasonable transition with a little work

If your overall score is 5 or under, stay at home and chill out

Instructions and Homework

Depending on the score for the individual sections, where there is a section  with one score of 0, there is a need to work on that principle or planet, according to the suggestions and antidotes below.

General poor function:

If you know someone with a Grand Cross in their natal chart, observe how they manage it

If you are involved in a crisis, meditate for an overview

If you are a bystander to a difficult situation building up, try to look at the whole and perhaps work with the individuals involved

Go back to your favourite Astrology textbook and feel the foundations of the planets and signs noted above, until you are confident you can handle them

Read “Gaia” by James Lovelock

Mars poor function:

Read “Assertiveness for Earth Angels” by Doreen Virtue

Read Dan Millman’s “The Way of the Peaceful Warrior”, or re-read it if you have already done so

Increase your level of  daily exercise slightly, for physical fitness, with your favoured activity, such as Qijong.

Jupiter poor function:

Read uplifting literature or re-read a favourite Self-Help book

Read “The Luck Factor” by Richard Wiseman

Strengthen your philosophical streak, by reading a philosophical work, such as by Alain de Botton, which relate philosophy to modern living

Strengthen your Inner Child, by playing, on your own or with a child or grandchild

Read a good Joke book

Uranus poor function:

Read “Embracing Uncertainty” by Susan Jeffers

Interact with your networks, strengthening group consciousness and interaction

Do one rebellious thing every day to accustom yourself to the consequences of your actions

Pluto poor function:

Meditate with the aim of bringing into balance the four principles, and centering yourself

Create or work with a mandala to achieve wholeness

Practise your spiritual path more regularly

Gaze at your navel

Connect to the Divine through prayer

Coming Next Week – Part 2

 Aspects

On Monday (14^th) you have a chance to flex your muscles prior to the Cardinal Grand Cross with a mild square.  This square of Mercury and Jupiter tends to produce over-stretching of resources, especially mental and geographic (e.g. travelling) resources.

By the evening, with all the mental stimulation, your antennae will be twitching with information from other dimensions, with a conjunction of Mercury and Uranus.

At 23.48 Hrs in the U.K., only 33 minutes after Mercury conjunct Uranus, and only 12 minutes before midnight, Pluto turns retrograde, and our psyches may take a turn, or revolve to an earlier state.  Issues we thought we had resolved may need another layer of examination.

In the. early hours of Tuesday (15^th)  Mercury is trying out the Cardinal Grand Cross for size, gathering information prior to the involvement of Mars.  This time it squares Pluto, and you may feel temporarily confused about your reality.  Something you thought was true may be in doubt, for instance.  Consider that both realities may be true.

Later, you awake, rise and shine on Tuesday to an eclipse, so preparation the night before would be helpful.  If you wake in the night from the Mercury-Pluto square, have yourself some chamomile tea and lavender on your pillow in order to have a complete sleep cycle in between, before the Full Moon.  That way, through your dreams or through deep sleep, you may access the deep wisdom of this Full Moon in Libra, which may bet attuned to relationships, your relationship with yourself, or artistic or musical expression.

On Wednesday (16^th ) Mercury opposes Mars late morning, and tension and irritability may bring frayed tempers or nerves.  Again that window asleep may have proved crucial to how you perform in the day.  If circumstances allow, go back to bed and re-set your nervous system.  Otherwise, stay away from fractious types.

Friday (18^th  ) brings some welcome and light relief from the pre-Cardinal Cross angst.  Venus trines Jupiter, and you may have a pre-planned or impromptu celebration, or an enjoyable social occasion to look forward to. There is a chance to let your hair down and relax in the company of friends and loved ones. This aspect takes place in the early hours of the morning, so its benefits may have extended to the evening before, i.e. Thursday night.

Mid-morning brings another favourable aspect towards Venus, a sextile with Pluto.  Someone you met socially might prove that they are not just a pretty face, in fact they may just have a diploma in counseling, and you can counsel each other.  Role play the Cardinal Cross, and you will really be making the most of this warm and non-frivolous aspect.  Anyone having a diploma in counseling should make good use of this morning.

If you have followed the suggestions for Part 1, you’ll be nearly ready and limbered up for the exercise and tasks of next week.

The week in bullet points:

• Monday – expansion, then original thinking; a psychological volte-face
• Tuesday – drama
• Wednesday – brisk and fractious
• Friday – relief and breakthroughs

Holby City and Casualty

(sound effect) “Nee naw! Nee Naw!”

On the New Moon in Aries, Connie Beauchamp transfers from Holby City to Casualty.

On the Uranus-Sun conjunction, Holby City had its most shocking storyline ever!  The fiancé of Jac Naylor’s baby’s father died.

The two hemispheres of my brain have now been able to fuse.

Meanwhile, in real life…

NHS

GP Service

Family and friends are finding it hard to obtain appointments with their G.P’s…We were told recently that the GP system is on the verge of collapse. New Chair of the Royal College of General Practitioners (from December 2013) Dr Maureen Baker said the family practitioner service was “under severe threat of extinction” on 23^rd March 2014.

New NHS CEO

On 1^st April, in a speech on his first day as NHS England’s chief executive, Simon Stevens, highlighted the financial problems faced currently.

Royal College of Physicians

This week too (4^th April) Sir Richard Thompson (President of the Royal College of Physicians) has stated that the  overload on doctors dealing with 70 patients where they should only be dealing with no more than 20, hence endangering the service they provide, likening medics to “scalded cats”.

Labour

Historically, Labour is the party which created the NHS and traditionally cares about it.  Under the  New Labour governments of 1997-2010, whatever else their failings, they managed to keep the NHS ticking over and reduced waiting times.

The Two Bevs

Lord Beveridge and the Welfare State

William Beveridge is credited with creating the Welfare State, through the Beveridge Report.  He was a Piscean, a fitting sign for the level of all-embracing care involved in such an institution.   He also had a very close conjunction of Neptune and Chiron, which I call a “crucible of healing”, plus a humanitarian karmic mission of North Node in Aquarius.

Aneurin Bevan

Along came the charismatic Aneurin Bevan, born exactly a Nodal Axis cycle later (18 years apart), with his North Node in the first degree of Aquarius, one degree from Beveridge’s, and as Health Minister he implemented Beveridge’s requirements and his karmic mission, creating the NHS.  Bevan had a satellitium (cluster of planets) in Scorpio (also a sign related to health and healing), including Sun conjunct Chiron (the Inner Healer, or the Wounded Healer).

Bevan’s Saturn (practicality) was sextile Beveridge’s North Node, and Bevan’s Ascendant was trine Beveridge’s Chiron (Healing).

Chart of the NHS

The NHS is a caring Cancerian institution, with a cluster of planets (satellitium) in Gemini squared by Mars in Virgo.  This highlights the need for communication, and high standards (Virgo) and the constant stress of its working environment.  The current disruptive reorganization of the NHS, whether it will prove necessary as the Coalition claim, is shown by the transit of Uranus squaring the Sun in the NHS chart and Pluto opposing the Sun.  In other words, the NHS is very much caught in the crossfire of the Uranus-Pluto square, which enters another phase shortly.

Coalition

Under the Coalition, there has been a deliberate dismantling of the NHS, under the banner of reorganization.  One suspects that the government does not care passionately enough about its fate.

Jeremy Hunt

Jeremy Hunt was made Secretary of State for Health in September 2012. Is the NHS safe in Jeremy Hunt’s hands? If actions speak louder than planets, he has not shown thus far a caring for the Institution.  However, after looking at his chart there is a mixture of influence (Chiron trine Neptune on the plus side, and Chiron conjunct Saturn on the minus side) and for the time being, I have to give him the benefit of the doubt, to be fair.

The Coalition, has underfunded the NHS and failed to give it the priority it deserves, I feel. We are in danger of losing it, and need politicians who really believe in it.  We need another Bev!

Aspects

Mercury enters Aries tomorrow, and we’ll be thinking more logically and leaving behind the imaginative approach and sometimes woolly thinking of Mercury in Pisces.  You’ll be concentrating on matters at hand, which signals a good first day of the week back in the Office.  Accounting is also favoured, though for most of us the income tax yearly calculations should be in by now, the deadline behind us.  If there is any immediate come back or problem arising, we should be able to deal with it immediately.

Tuesday (8^th) brings an opposition between the Sun and Mars, so it will be action packed, on the verge of being manic.  You might feel the pressure to perform in some way: maybe someone expects a punishing programme of productivity from you.  You may start to automatically comply, until you realize it is counterproductive, and not in your best interests to work under those conditions.  Be wary of aggressive or bossy types.  You need to re-establish your own natural rhythm.

Lastly, on Saturday (12^th), Venus is conjunct Neptune, a mood as far away as you can get from that of Tuesday’s opposition.  This is about expressing your sensitivity through the Arts and relationships, which may include a high degree of romanticism.  The awareness could also be highlighted about the plight of sea creatures, such as the whales and dolphins.  Such campaigns have recently had some success, and certainly Saturday’s aspect will sustain the opening of hearts.

The week in bullet points:

• Tomorrow – Focussed thought
• Tuesday – strife
• Saturday – peace and inspiration

The forthcoming Cardinal Cross in April has left Astrologers scrabbling about for some good news.  The shift of the North Node into Libra is one such nugget, as to have had both the North Node and Saturn in Scorpio these last 18 months has been karma-intensive to say the least.  North Node in Libra is easier, but it does entail doing some work on our relationships.

North Node in Libra

The True Node entered Libra in February, and the Mean North Node entered Libra last Sunday, so we are safely in the era of North Node in Libra.  The North Node is not difficult in itself.  Just as with new life, new love, and hope springs eternal… the concept of Karma, which it represents, it can be positive, but in its previous sign of Scorpio (it retrogrades through the zodiac) it can increase the angst and paranoia.  These have not disappeared overnight, but North Node in Libra is a softer option and less of a battle.  It favours working on relationships, and may improve the Arts, including the musical arena, and changes in Law.  Changes need to be enacted with progress in mind, and evolution.  These are different from some of the harsher and more seemingly destructive changes which are still going on under the banner of the Uranus-Pluto square, and the coming Cardinal Cross.  The North Node stays in a sign approximately 18 months, and the karmic tone of this new shift is Co-operation.

Last Week

Gay marriage was made legal in Britain on Saturday, with a perfect trine between Mars and Venus.  This looks like a manifestation from North Node entering Libra.  According to future life progression transcripts, relationships will be changing in the future, and new social forms of relationship likely.  So the next 18 month may be a key period for such changes to emerge, as it will be another 18 years before the North Node enters Libra again.  People may enter, and disappear, from your life to change your perception of what relationships could or should be.

Relationships

Chris Griscom wrote in her seminal book in 1988 (“Ecstasy is a New Frequency”): “We are going through a profound change emotionally.  For example, how many of your relationships are working right now?  Relationships have not been working for the past 3 or 4 years.  Why?  Because we’re doing something wrong?  No.  Because we are speeding up.  We are quickening just as fast as we can, because now is our time.  We need to embrace this understanding, not from “Oh no, here it comes” but from “Hmmm, let’s see what we are choosing,” so that we can dance with the great integrity and wisdom and skill that we have on a divine level.” She wrote this 26 years ago, and we are still undergoing profound change in the nature of relationship.  We still have high expectations for relationship, and for most people relationships are of the utmost importance in their lives.

Relationships are Eternal

We are constantly working on relationships which go back centuries, even millennia.  Past life regression work is very helpful to understanding where you have been with a relationship, and Future Life Progression can help you to see where you are going with a relationship, in the Future.  These are two ways of working with North Node in Libra.

Aspects

I billed today’s New Moon in Aries as “new life, new love, and hope springs eternal…”, so I hope that is how you are finding this Mother’s Day.  I was at a loose end a couple of times this week, and watched “Lambing Live” with Kate Humble, which really brought me up to the basics of what is meant by the Sun in Aries.  It’s an Aries version of “One Born Every Minute” which is another programme I like.  I never cease to be overcome with the wonder of seeing new birth.  You may be giving birth to something new today, and may marvel at the process of creation and new life. You may see green shoots where you didn’t expect to find them.

On Tuesday 1st (April Fool’s Day) someone certainly will have the last laugh as the Sun squares Jupiter.  Not too much harm done by pranks, but some laughter inappropriate with this aspect.  The human spirit may be irrepressible, which is mostly good.

On Wednesday (2^nd) the Sun conjuncts Uranus, and the Universe certainly has a surprise up its sleeve, humorous or not.  Sharpen your Intuition the night before, and programme your dreams to be one step ahead, and you will be in the flow.

Thursday (3^rd) starts well, with a steady trine between Mercury and Saturn. You may have recovered well and sensibly from any surprises the day before, and even formulate plans in your mind as to how to proceed.  This aspect occurs at 3.03 a.m. in the U.K, on 3rd, so the number 3 may be lucky for some.  Again you may have to work with this aspect in your sleeping, dreaming or insomnia time, but it will be good to get ahead.

Have everything ship shape and Bristol fashion by 9.22 a.m., for the Sun squares Pluto at that time, and you may have to re-schedule due to extra demands on your time, energy and resources.  Keep it free in your diary, or book a pampering aromatherapy session or something relaxing.  Something comes up urgently for processing, and you need to keep the space fairly clear.

Lastly, Venus enters Pisces on Saturday evening, and from a detached feeling perspective (Venus coming from Aquarius) feelings become more emotional until early May while Venus is in this sign.  Therefore throughout the Cardinal Cross (approximately third week of April) we will be experiencing our feelings with tears closer to the surface.  I need to remember the Kleenex tissues for my regression clients.  Someone brought their own this week, luckily.  It may not be too late to take out shares, just for the month.

The week in bullet points:

• Today – New creation
• Tuesday – Fooling around
• Wednesday – Surprises
• Thursday – Plans made and unmade
• Saturday – Deep feelings

Angelologists

Up until the 1990s there were many books about spiritual guides, and then in the early 1990s a plethora of books sprang up about Angels.  One of my favourite books about guides was updated to include Angels.  It’s an uplifting subject for reading, and I began to have a few experiences of my own.  One of the members of my meditation group was able to see Angels, and  used to regale us with detailed descriptions of them.  I have often wondered how the great art masters of yesteryear came to compose their paintings of Angels, and how clearly they saw them in their mind’s eye.

Emanuel Swedenborg

Emanuel Swedenborg was born in 1688 in Sweden, and for a considerable part of his life was a Scientist and inventor, but had a wide range of interests.  In the 1740s his spiritual sight began to open up, and in the mid-1740s he had a major spiritual awakening, and saw hosts of Angels in his visions, also communicating with planets.  Swedenborg was an Aquarian, with his ruling planet Uranus exactly conjunct his Moon (unusual visions).  This conjunction was conjunct his I.C. (Imum Coelum), so he had an unusual foundation for his life, which became more fundamental after his spiritual awakening.  His Neptune (spirituality) was trine his Chiron (healing) and it was soon after his Chiron return in mid life that he was able to access this healing pathway.  His North Node was exactly sextile his natal Neptune, indicating that Angelic communion was part of his karmic mission.  His Mars (physical vision) was trine exactly with his Ascendant.  At the time of his Spiritual Awakening, Uranus was transiting his natal Mercury (the opening up of his mind to higher consciousness) which is a once in a lifetime transit.

Doreen Virtue

Doreen Virtue is a prolific writer on Angels, with CDs and Oracle cards a-plenty In the shops (as well as online).  Another is Diana Cooper (not quite so prolific), but her birth date is not available.  Emanuel Swedenborg was Christian in his focus, but Doreen is non-denomenational, which places her Angel work firmly in the New Age category.  She qualified in Psychology originally, and some of her early books are about diet and eating disorders.  It was on an early taped meditation about Angels that I first heard her refer to her career as an “Angelologist”, not a word I had heard before.  To make Angels the focus of your life’s work must be enjoyable, I thought.  She has a considerable presence on Facebook,  recently including a daily diary.  But the current focus of her work, from her most recent book, is Self-Assertiveness for Earth Angels, which ensures that none of us gets trampled upon.  When I first saw Doreen’s birth chart many years ago, I looked at her triple conjunction of Jupiter, North Node and Neptune conjunction, and thought: “There goes the chart signature of an Angelologist!”  However, I do know others born around the Spring of 1958 who have the conjunction, and have chosen to do other things for a living.  It is still rare to be an Angelologist.  She has Mars (physical vision) trine her North Node and Neptune (karmic mission plus Angels).

Lorna Byrne

By the time Lorna Byrne’s first book came out in 2008, I felt I had read enough books about Angels and considered I had the t-shirt.  I was wrong, but I resisted reading her books until recently.  Lorna is an Irish mystic from birth, who saw Angels from the time she was a baby.  For someone like myself who does not see Angels, her detailed descriptions of them are a treat, and make you feel as though you are seeing them.  She brings them to life more vividly than other writers. It would be wonderful if she or someone else produced a book of illustrations of her visions.  She has a particular emphasis on Guardian Angels:

“I am continually amazed at the number of people who doubt they have a guardian angel.  Many are happy to accept that other people might have a guardian angel, but doubt that they have one themselves.”

Her third book, brought out in the middle of the era of the Uranus-Pluto square, focuses on the need to recognize the Angel of Hope, who she describes thus:

“The Angel of Hope doesn’t look like any other Angel I have ever seen.  He looks like a massive flame.  Within this very bright flame I am shown a faint human appearance, which is masculine, and a beautiful dazzling emerald green colour, holding a torch – like an Olympic flame.  The brightness of the Angel of Hope looks different to any other Angel; I think this is because it’s a light within a light.”

Lorna came from an Irish Catholic background, and because she was withdrawn as a child, always seeing and communicating with Angels,  she was considered to be “retarded”, and left school at 14.  She married and had four children, but her husband Joe was dogged with ill health and died young, leaving her to bring up her children as a single parent.  It was revealed to her when young that she would one day write books about her experiences, but for the most part needed to keep silent about what she saw.

Lorna’s Sun and Mercury in Aries (the sign of physical vision) are largely unaspected, pointing to a highly individual path and vision.  Her Sun does however exactly sextile the asteroid Chiron (healing) and squares by three degrees the Nodal Axis  – again marking out her karmic path singularly.

Her fourth book “Love from Heaven” is due to be published on 24^th April, just after the Cosmic Cross which includes the next square of Uranus and Pluto, so it will be most timely.  I have pre-ordered a copy.

Conclusion

All three of these Angelologists have Neptune (Angels) aspected to their North Node (karmic mission).  Swedenborg had Neptune exactly sextile his  North Node,  Doreen Virtue has Neptune two degrees away from her North Node, and Lorna Byrne has Neptune sextile her North Node within 3 degrees.  The healing applications of Chiron are prominent for all three, too.  Emanual Swedenborg had Chiron trine his Neptune, with the North Node sextile both, in between them.  Doreen Virtue has a trine between her Chiron and Jupiter, three degrees apart, and Lorna Byrne has an exact sextile beteen her Sun and Chiron.

Aspects

A splendid first aspect for the week arrives on Wednesday (26^th) when Mercury trines Jupiter.  Sales and business plans are blessed, as is travel, communication and education.  Use any preparations you undertake that day as a launch pad, setting the tone for the rest of the week.

Friday (28^th) has another constructive aspect in the form of Mercury sextile Pluto.  Though Wednesday’s  proceedings would have been informative, Friday’s takes information to a deeper level, perhaps taking into account causation, or psychological motives.  If you sketched out a plan of action on Wednesday, you can connect the dots or colour in the outlines on Friday.

Saturday (29^th) brings another aspect to Mercury, this time a conjunction with Chiron.  Here the focus will be on healing, and solutions should follow on sequentially from any mental crises.

Next Venus trines Mars, which is good for kindling romance, or balancing the male and female sides of the psyche, occurring in the evening (U.K. time).

If you meet an attractive stranger at a party, be aware that only two hours later, with Venus going on to square Saturn, they could break your heart, and disappear leaving only a glass slipper, even before midnight.  In other words, do not set too much store by an early evening attachment, as its loss could be keenly felt all too soon.

It seems like a melancholy way to leave the week, so let’s take a sneak preview at the next day (Sunday 30^th).  There we see a New Moon in Aries: new life, new love, and hope springs eternal…

The week in bullet points:

• Wednesday – freewheeling
• Friday – benefits from a deeper look
• Saturday – healing thoughts, pleasure followed by let down, but tomorrow is a new day